**Title: Palestinians Begin Returning Home as Gaza Ceasefire Takes Effect**

WADI GAZA, Gaza Strip — A U.S.-brokered ceasefire took effect on Friday, prompting tens of thousands of Palestinians to return to the heavily damaged northern Gaza Strip. This ceasefire has raised hopes for an end to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The agreement includes the release of all remaining hostages within days. However, uncertainty remains regarding the future governance of Gaza and whether Hamas will disarm, as outlined in U.S. President Donald Trump’s ceasefire plan.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hinted that military action could resume if Hamas does not comply with disarmament. He stated, "If this is achieved the easy way — so be it. If not — it will be achieved the hard way." The ceasefire marks a significant step toward concluding a devastating two-year war that began with Hamas's attack on Israel in October 2023. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of Palestinians and displaced approximately 90% of Gaza's population, which numbers around 2 million.

As the ceasefire commenced, heavy shelling in parts of Gaza reportedly ceased. The Israeli military confirmed the start of the ceasefire and announced that the remaining 48 hostages, about 20 of whom are believed to be alive, are expected to be released by Monday.

In a televised address, Netanyahu emphasized the need for Hamas to disarm, stating that the group agreed to the ceasefire only under pressure. The Israeli military plans to continue defensive operations in the approximately 50% of Gaza it still controls.

The United Nations has received approval from Israel to begin delivering increased humanitarian aid to Gaza starting Sunday. This aid is crucial as the region faces severe malnutrition and famine conditions exacerbated by the conflict and restrictions on assistance. The U.N. plans to deliver 170,000 metric tons of aid, which has been pre-positioned in neighboring countries like Jordan and Egypt.

A steady stream of displaced Palestinians began returning to their homes, many of which have been reduced to rubble. Emotional scenes unfolded as families reunited, but the joy was mixed with sorrow as they confronted the destruction. Jamal Mesbah, who was displaced from northern Gaza, expressed a bittersweet relief, saying, "There wasn’t much joy, but the ceasefire somewhat eased the pain of death and bloodshed."

In Khan Younis, returning residents found their neighborhoods devastated. Fatma Radwan described her homecoming, stating, "There was nothing left. Just a few clothes, pieces of wood and pots." Many are still searching for loved ones believed to be trapped under the rubble.

The war, which began with Hamas's incursion into Israel on October 7, 2023, has resulted in over 67,000 Palestinian deaths and nearly 170,000 injuries, according to Gaza's Health Ministry. The ministry's figures, which do not distinguish between civilians and combatants, are considered reliable by the U.N. and independent experts.

Looking ahead, Israel is expected to release around 2,000 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the hostages. However, high-profile prisoners, such as Marwan Barghouti, were not included in the exchange list. Khalil al-Hayya, a senior Hamas official, stated that all women and children held in Israeli jails will be freed.

The ceasefire agreement also anticipates the reopening of five border crossings, including Rafah, to facilitate aid delivery. The Trump plan envisions an ongoing Israeli military presence in Gaza, with an international force overseeing security. U.S. officials have indicated that about 200 troops will be sent to Israel to support the ceasefire.

As the ceasefire holds, Gazans are left to navigate the aftermath of destruction while holding onto a fragile hope for peace and recovery. The path forward remains uncertain, with deep humanitarian needs and political complexities looming over the region.